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GP3 Champion Evans tests new generation car

Mitch Evans assists with GP3 tyre development and gets first taste of GP2

Reigning GP3 Series Champion Mitch Evans got behind the wheel of the eagerly anticipated GP3/13 car today for a two-day development test session at the Magny-Cours circuit in France. GP3 organisers decided that as part of winning the title, the newly crowned Champion would get the opportunity to experience a first taste of the second generation GP3 car by undertaking some development testing. On top of this, a test in the GP2 development car was also awarded, thus giving Evans the chance to drive both cars.

GP3 Series Champion Mitch Evans said: “I’m very happy to be given this opportunity. The new car is really fun to drive. It’s a big step-up in power. I think GP3 have also done a really good job with the engine. The sound of the GP3/13 is really nice. When you exit the pits you notice the difference straight away with the noise, especially as it’s so much louder. I think all in all it’s a good step forward for the GP3 Series, with moving closer to GP2. Next year looks very promising with the second generation car.”

The New Zealander has quite an important programme to cover during the two-day test session which targets tyre development.

Evans commented: “It’s a great experience, obviously it’s very new to me. I can’t thank GP3, GP2 and Pirelli enough for giving me this opportunity to do it. We have tested lots of new tyres today so it’s been like a massive qualifying session for me which has been very challenging but also good fun. It will be very interesting to see how the tyres perform over the longer runs. I want to make the most of this over the two day test and to learn as much as possible.”

Evans will be given his maiden run in the GP2 development car tomorrow as part of his prize for winning the GP3 title.